Directory takes shape

A small committee consisting of members Linda Hatch, Evelyn May, and committee members Liz Gee and Marianne Cool has been working relentlessly to compile the first ever Slow Food Shoalhaven Producers Directory.

“Through members, community involvement and our own network we’ve accumulated a list of 75+ small scale farmers, producers and growers in the Shoalhaven, including a few on the in-and-out routes of our district (Braidwood, Kiama/Gerringong and Batemans Bay/Moruya)” says Liz Gee. “We have contacted nearly all of them by email, phone and in person and most have responded positively especially as participation will be free of charge to them. We are now in the process of compiling all their data to be included in the directory. It’s a lot of work but we’re having a lot of fun doing it”.

Once all data has been gathered, the design and printing of the directory will be done locally. At the same time an online version of the directory will be made available. “We have approached our local council and Shoalhaven Tourism and hope they’ll be able to help us with some funding for this project which will help create awareness of our local growers and producers with residents as well as visitors and tourists” adds Marianne Cool. “Producers play such a critical role in our local food community and we need to do everything we can to help them get recognised and celebrated for their efforts”.

The project is estimated to be completed before the end of this year. Once printed, it will be launched and distributed to producers, local chefs/cafe’s and providores, tourist bureaus and our members. Directories will also be available at Slow Food Shoalhaven events and activities.